Forty seven young people are being offered a great start to their working careers this week as East Ayrshire Council's Skills Development and Employability Service hosts a recruitment fair at the Grand Hall. On offer will be 47 Modern Apprenticeships with the Council and help with alternative courses and help for everyone who attends.

The Modern Apprenticeships, in areas such as Business Administration, Construction, Roads Maintenance, Horticulture and Social Care, normally apply to 16 - 19 year olds. However this fair also offers a second chance for five people who have been made redundant by struggling businesses before they've completed their training. For these five, who have completed the first or second year of their Modern Apprenticeships in construction skills, there is an offer of a job which allows them to complete their training and qualifications.

Sarah MacDonald (17), who has already started a Modern Apprenticeship within East Ayrshire Council said "I didn't do so well at secondary school - I didn't enjoy it and had no self confidence. I didn't know what I wanted to do and college wouldn't have been right for me, I didn't realise there were so many choices available until I spoke to my careers officer who got me on the Targeted Pathways to Apprenticeship with East Ayrshire Council.

"Since I started working here I've got my self confidence back, I love my job and everyone is very nice and treats me with respect. I was chosen to meet the Scottish Secretary Michael Moore in the Council Chambers and had to speak to him about my experience. And then I was presented to Prince Charles when he came to open our offices at The Johnnie Walker Bond. I couldn't have done that before. I think the Modern Apprenticeship is a great way to get life skills and experience and I love having this job" For more details about the open day, which runs on Thursday 24 May from 3.00pm - 7.00pm Modern Apprenticeships and other job opportunities please contact: 01563 503000